The other day, a disturbing incident occurred. I was in a local store trying to market my book, and the girl behind the counter noticed my pendant. This sparked a conversation about the Dave Matthews Band, a topic that I'm always up for discussing. That's why it was so shocking when she told me her opinion, which was basically, that all Dave shows are alike. Dumbfounded, I couldn't even find the words to counter her argument, except to say, “No, No... I mean, No!” How do you explain the unsayable? Isn't it just obvious that this is the best band on Earth? Seriously, there's even a Facebook group called Dave Matthews Band - The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread, or something to that effect. But, as I tend do to after awkward encounters, I started thinking, and that's when I realized that part of why DMB is the most amazing band is because of the power of their lyrics. The words that I couldn't find in that instant are ever present, in every song.The other day, a disturbing incident occurred. I was in a local store trying to market my book, and the girl behind the counter noticed my pendant. This sparked a conversation about the Dave Matthews Band, a topic that I'm always up for discussing. That's why it was so shocking when she told me her opinion, which was basically, that all Dave shows are alike. Dumbfounded, I couldn't even find the words to counter her argument, except to say, “No, No... I mean, No!” How do you explain the unsayable? Isn't it just obvious that this is the best band on Earth? Seriously, there's even a Facebook group called Dave Matthews Band - The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread, or something to that effect. But, as I tend do to after awkward encounters, I started thinking, and that's when I realized that part of why DMB is the most amazing band is because of the power of their lyrics. The words that I couldn't find in that instant are ever present, in every song.
As I sit here, glued to the TV, watching CNN's broadcast of the historic inauguration of President Obama, I can't help but think about the idea of change. For many of us, welcoming the new president is a change that couldn't come fast enough. But what about those changes in life that we couldn't predict, didn't choose, and simply wouldn't want? The latter describes how countless Dave Matthews Band fans are feeling about the crushing loss of arguably one of the best saxophone players of all time, Mr. Leroi Moore (1961-2008). Words can't express the sorrow that swept the DMB community when news of Leroi's passing was announced. An outpouring of grief and condolences to the band and Leroi's family ensued, and we are by no means done grieving. Instead, we're listening to our favorite versions of #34, Grey Street, and Stolen Away on 55th, marveling at Leroi's unbelievable ability and finesse. And yet, as we speak, the band is in the studio perfecting the new album, and the Spring tour is only 3 months away!
As the last leaves fall of the trees and fall turns into winter, many people find themselves feeling uncharacteristically blue. For some, this condition, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), can be almost debilitating. Dave fans know this all too well, except that for us (SAD) stands for Severely Absent Dave. Every year, at the conclusion of the summer tour we're forced into involuntary Dave withdrawal for far too long. Luckily, my friends, 2009 will be different, as we have a Spring tour to look forward to, which kicks off April 14th at Madison Square Garden. So, what is it about being at a Dave Matthews Band show that can put a spring in our steps and shake up our bones and feet?
The year 2009 will be an exciting one for Dave Matthews Band aficionados. With the release of a new studio album expected early in the year, anticipation is growing among the groups' faithful followers. We're all wondering what to expect and how the tracks will resonate with us. There's understandable anxiety about how the chemistry of DMB has been altered due to the death of Leroi, and how that will play out in the music, although deep down we know the gang will pull through and deliver something amazing. Still, even the most devout fans might be wondering if the new production will meet our lofty expectations. Can we love these novel tunes as much as our old favorites?
Recently, there's been a lot of hype about Dave and Stefan on Twitter. Fans everywhere are trying to figure out the magic formula to score a coveted response. Some “twitterers” say Dave only responds to "tweets" about sex, politics, and of course farts, while others say it's all about being online at the right moment. I wish I could say I've been immune to the craziness, but I too, have played the game and been rewarded with a single answer. I asked Dave whether he puts his bananas in a bag when he buys them at the store, and he said, “I bring a banana bag along.” Great, ecological answer. Of course, if I knew he was going to respond, I probably would have chosen a different question!